A data entry worker enters large amounts of data into computer systems. Such workers must be comfortable with using a computer keyboard and be able to enter data as efficiently as possible. If you are interested in a data-entry job, then improving your data-entry skills is a great place to start.

Learn to type properly if you don’t already do so. Your fingers should rest on the “home row” keys, with the pinky, ring, middle and index fingers of your left hand resting on the A, S, D and F keys, respectively. Your right-hand fingers should be on J, K, L and the semicolon key, and your thumbs should hover over the space bar. As you type, hit each key with the finger closest to it. After pressing a key, return your finger to its home row position. As you become more accustomed to typing this way, practice doing so without looking at the keyboard.

Find your typing speed by taking a free online typing test (see Resources). Knowing how many words per minute you are able to type will help you to determine a goal speed.

Set a reasonable goal and time frame, such as increasing your speed by 10 or 20 words per minute in the next two weeks.

Play typing games that are designed to help improve the dexterity of your fingers (see Resources). Some games exercise only two fingers at a time, which works well for beginners. As your skills improve, you can move on to more challenging games.

Type a page from a book or an article from a newspaper as you read it. This helps you learn to type without looking at the computer screen or keyboard.

Allot a certain amount of time each day for practice. Even as little as 10 minutes per day makes a difference.